d his mind; he only thought of his poor dog, and tried to console
himself with the reflection that he had prevented a greater evil than he
had suffered a calamity by despatching a mad animal. But even this
thought did not quiet him.

"'I am most unfortunate,' said he to himself; 'I had almost rather have
lost my money than my dog.'

"Saying this, he put out his hand to grasp his treasure. It was missing;
no bag was to be found. In one instant his eyes were opened to his
rashness and folly. 'Wretch that I am!' he cried; 'I alone am to blame.
I could not understand the caution which my innocent and most faithful
friend gave me; and I have sacrificed him for his zeal. He only wished
to inform me of my mistake; and he has paid for his fidelity with his
life!'

"Instantly he turned his horse, and went off at full gallop to the
place where he had stopped. He saw with half averted eyes the scene
where the tragedy was acted; he perceived the traces of blood as he
proceeded; he was oppressed and distracted; but in vain he looked for
his dog; he was not to be seen on the road.

"At last he arrived at the spot where he had alighted. But here his
heart bled afresh. He was entirely overcome. The poor dog, unable to
follow his dear but cruel master, had determined to consecrate his last
moments to his service. He had crawled, all bloody as he was, to the
forgotten bag, and in the agonies of death, he lay watching beside it.

[Illustration: THE DOG FAITHFUL TILL DEATH. Page 92.]

"As soon as he saw his master, he testified his joy by wagging his tail.
He could do no more; he tried to rise, but his strength was gone. The
vital tide was ebbing fast; and even the caresses of his master could
not prolong his life for a few moments. He stretched out his tongue to
lick the hand that was now fondling him in the agonies of regret, as if
to seal forgiveness of the deed that had deprived him of life. He then
cast a look of love on his master, and closed his eyes in death."

CHAPTER V.

CANICHE AND THE TRAVELLER.

Mr. Lee returned one day from the city with a party of friends who had
been invited to visit them. They were all seated at the tea table, when
a quick ringing of one of the chamber bells attracted their attention.

The gentleman glanced at his wife, who at once noticed that all the
family were present at the table, and only answered by the words, "Who
can it be?"

"It is Maria or Emily Otis, from the city," he answ